Here are five picks for the weekend:
- A sea of lights after sunset: As darkness falls over Elm Park on Saturday, July 25, thousands of glowing lanterns will transform the water into one of Worcester’s most striking summer sights. The Lantern Festival begins at 5:30 p.m. with live music, food trucks and activities before participants decorate their lanterns with messages, hopes or memories. At sunset, the crowd gathers for a coordinated lantern launch, creating a breathtaking display across the water. Whether you’re celebrating, remembering someone special or simply looking for a memorable night out, it’s an experience designed to be shared. Festivities continue through 9:30 p.m.
- Bluegrass with tude: Forget everything you think you know about bluegrass. Big Richard brings blistering musicianship, sharp wit and a healthy dose of irreverence to the BrickBox Theater at the JMAC on Saturday, July 25, with the show kicking off at 7:30 p.m. The quartet’s live shows blend driving acoustic music, powerhouse vocals and fearless songwriting with enough energy to win over traditional bluegrass fans and skeptics alike. Expect dazzling fiddle, mandolin, cello and bass work, a few laughs and a performance that’s anything but predictable.
- The Revolution wasn’t unanimous: Everyone knows Worcester’s patriots, but what about the neighbors who remained loyal to the British Crown? The Worcester Public Library takes a closer look at the city’s overlooked Loyalist history during a fascinating local history talk on Saturday, July 25, from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Local history librarian Alex explores the lives of Worcester’s Tories, the tensions of the Revolutionary era and the enduring mystery of whether Tory Fort Lane was really home to a fort. History buffs—and anyone who’s ever wondered about that street name—will find plenty to discover.
- Lobstah jokes and plenty of laughs: If you’ve spent any time in New England, chances are Bob Marley has found something in your life to joke about. The longtime comedian brings his rapid-fire storytelling, unmistakable Maine accent and hilarious takes on everyday life to Rascals on Saturday, July 25, from 8-10 p.m. Expect a night of relatable humor, quick improvisation and the kind of comedy that has made Marley one of the region’s most recognizable stand-up acts for decades.
- Ready for liftoff? Count down to a day of rockets, science and hands-on fun at the EcoTarium’s Rocket Day on Saturday, July 25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors can build and launch their own rockets, watch a model rocket soar into the sky, explore space-themed activities and enjoy educator-led programs throughout the day. Planetarium shows, astronomy presentations and the museum’s popular exhibits—including The Secret World of Elephants—make it easy to spend an entire day reaching for the stars.
For more events, visit the Discover Central Massachusetts events calendar.
Have an event, news tip, idea for a feature, information, joke, favorite recipe or anything else you’d like to tell us about? You should. Contact carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
